Facebook video calling allows users to make video calls directly through the Facebook website or mobile app. While the Facebook video calling feature was originally designed with mobile users in mind, it is also possible to make and receive Facebook video calls on your laptop.
Making Facebook Video Calls on a Laptop
There are a couple of different ways to make Facebook video calls from your laptop:
- Use the Facebook website – Open the Facebook website in your laptop’s web browser. Go to your friend’s profile or the Facebook Messenger website. Click on the video icon next to their name to start a video call.
- Use the Facebook Messenger app – Download and install the Facebook Messenger app on your laptop. Open the app and select a friend to video call from your friends list or conversation thread.
- Use Messenger.com – Visit Messenger.com in your laptop’s web browser. This gives you access to Facebook Messenger without downloading the app.
As long as you have a webcam enabled on your laptop and an internet connection, the calling process is essentially the same as on a smartphone. The video call occurs in real-time and allows you to see and talk to your Facebook friend.
Receiving Facebook Video Calls on a Laptop
When someone tries to video call you on Facebook from their mobile device or computer, you will get notified of an incoming call in a couple of ways:
- A popup notification will appear at the bottom right of your laptop screen (if you have the Facebook website or Messenger app open).
- An audio ringtone will play through your laptop speakers.
- The video icon will pulsate to indicate an active call.
To answer the call, simply click on the Accept button in the popup notification or click on the pulsating video icon in the Facebook website or Messenger app. This will open your laptop’s webcam and connect the video call.
Laptop Video Calling Requirements
Here are the basic requirements for making and taking Facebook video calls on a laptop:
- Active Facebook account
- Facebook Messenger app or access to Facebook website
- Working webcam built into or connected to your laptop
- Microphone built into or connected to your laptop
- Up-to-date browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari etc.)
- High-speed internet connection (at least 2 Mbps recommended)
As long as your laptop meets these requirements, you should have no issues with video call connectivity or quality.
Troubleshooting Facebook Video Call Issues on Laptops
If you are having trouble making or receiving Facebook video calls on your laptop, here are some troubleshooting steps to try:
- Make sure your laptop webcam is not disabled or blocked. Some laptops have a physical webcam privacy shutter or a keyboard shortcut to disable the webcam.
- Check your microphone settings and make sure the correct input device is selected on your laptop.
- Update your laptop’s audio, video, and network drivers to the latest available versions.
- Disable any VPN or proxy connections that could interfere with video calling performance.
- Temporarily disable any firewall, antivirus, or security software to see if they are blocking access.
- Try switching from WiFi to a wired internet connection to rule out wireless network issues.
- Restart your laptop and router if you continue having connectivity problems.
Following general best practices for laptop video calls can also help:
- Position your laptop webcam at eye level for the most flattering angle.
- Make sure you have adequate lighting so you are visible on camera.
- Choose a quiet area to avoid background noise interfering with your audio.
- Close any unnecessary programs to devote more system resources to the video call.
Facebook Video Call Tips for Laptop Users
Beyond just making a basic video call, Facebook has some built-in features to enhance the video chatting experience on laptops:
- Use Facebook Messenger desktop apps for the best experience. The desktop apps have larger windows and more functionality compared to the websites.
- Take advantage of Facebook Messenger’s fun video filters, reactions, and effects to make your video chats more engaging.
- Change your background in the Messenger app to disguise a messy room.
- Use the group video calling feature to chat with up to 8 people simultaneously.
- Share photos or your laptop screen for visual reference during a call.
- Enable HD video in Messenger’s settings for higher quality video up to 720p resolution.
Conclusion
Facebook offers versatile video calling that works across smartphones, computers, laptops, tablets and more. As long as you have the required hardware, an internet connection, and an updated browser or app, it is quick and easy to start a video call from your laptop. Troubleshoot any technical issues, adjust your setup for an optimal experience, and take advantage of Messenger’s fun video features to get the most out of Facebook video calling on your laptop.